Opening Doors - A Tender Mercies Spring Event

By Rebecca Hendrixson

Friends of Tender Mercies were welcomed to the home of Joe and Lorraine Mayernik on May 18 to attend an event called Opening Doors. Multi-colored doors were visibly displayed and labeled “Security,” “Dignity” and “Community.” This was an evening of giving to provide a warm bed, a safe home and a future of promise for those with mental illness who are homeless. The model of housing is based on the belief that by addressing the root causes of homelessness they can help an individual break the cycle of homelessness once he or she leaves Tender Mercies.

Joe Feldhaus, a Tender Mercies volunteer, talked about how Tender Mercies provides the tools and skills for its residents to rebuild their lives and prevent a return to homelessness. Guests were able to see the journeys of Tender Mercies’ residents as they find a path to security, dignity and community via a video played throughout the home.

Security means a house environment where residents’ personal safety is a priority. Dignity means a housing environment that allows residents to develop personal, social and economic strengths. And community is a regular, predictable housing environment that offers a sense of family, while affirming the individual. Tender Mercies was founded in 1985 by three clergymen working among the homeless in the Over-the-Rhine area of Cincinnati.

The evening included a “Beyond the Doors” raffle with prizes such as a Reds Suite for 14 guests, a diamond necklace by Paolo, two Ultimate Air Shuttle tickets to Chicago, a weekend in Palm Coast, Florida, a watch from Richter & Phillips, and more.

Guests were treated to cocktails, dinner by Funky’s Catering and music by the Fathead Davis Trio. An absolutely perfect spring evening was enjoyed by all at the impeccable and lovely Mayernik home. The event was presented by Mercy Health.